Upon My Word!

Hadya Binte Haidar Khan Surattee

2012-01-02T01:12:00.002+08:00

I have not been touching Upon My Word for a long time. I had been busy baking and Charm Bakes is well updated now. I have been more actively baking after I gave birth and after of course after I got myself a helper.

Motherhood has been nothing but blessed. I understood the joy of all mothers the moment we help the first baby in their arms. I was at the highest peak of my life and everything else of me would evolve around her.

On 23rd July 2011, I gave birth to my first baby girl. She was born 50 cm long weighing 3.53 kg, right on the estimated delivery date.

We named her Hadya ( meaning : Guide to Righteousness )

Her name was not just picked randomly. I specifically wanted a short name. Hearing all those babies with long names was just not my preference. I wanted her name as short as possible, as meaningful as it can be and may she be the person as how her name was meant for. Layla was my first choice but Hadya just caught my attention like love at first sight.

She was my guide. My guide that I want to do better in life not just being a mother but a better person worth living.

It used to be just the 2 of us against the world and now its 3. Hubby and I had never been happier. Waking up to see her smile, get panic when she cried, fed her when she's hungry and bought toys that caught her attention. It's a learning process for all 3 of us. Hubby learnt how to carry and care for a baby, being a good father, I'm learning how to be a good mother and Hadya, learning all the new things in life.

What more could we ask for [ other than having another baby to complete the family package :) ] ?

Pictures of Hadya from 0 to 5 months.

She grew beautifully and still growing.

Many asked, who does her features come from. I would say - Both of us. She was fair, she had both our features equally.

I love everything about her! Which mother doesnt?

She is 5 months and 2 weeks now. Active and squeaky.

My dearest daughter Hadya Binte Haidar Khan Surattee,

I will always recall the momentous day you were born, I became the happiest mother on earth. Your father and I marveled at the angel kisses on your cheeks, your tiny, wrinkled fingers and your intense eyes. I'm not embarrassed to admit it, but I cried. Deep tears of joy. Because all my life the one thing I always knew was I wanted to be a mother. Other than that I was often rudderless, trying to navigate the ocean of life and figure out what my path in life was to be. But I never wavered in my hope to be a mother. So when you were born you will be giving me the experience of a lifetime. The experience that holds the deepest most treasured place in my heart.

Your are indeed my 'Hadya ( 'Gift' in Malay translation ). Gift from Allah.

Love,

Ummi

Pregnant at 30 weeks!

2011-05-09T01:05:00.000+08:00

I was blog hopping when I realize that my blog have been deserted by myself for months now. The last update was the news that I got pregnant which I could not believe myself.

I'm 30 weeks pregnant now and that's like 10 weeks to go which I can safely say approximately 2 months before I burst out. This pregnancy has been nothing but a smooth journey so far. My hormone changes was not that drastic as I expected it to be. My weight gain is less than 10 kgs and as i calculated correctly I only gain 5 kg.

My 1st scan was at 18 weeks when I first really believe for real that I was really pregnant. I didnt have any preganancy symptoms such as morning sickness or cravings. I live my days like I always had.

I remembered when the ultrasound lady was just looking at the screen and I got nervous and asked her " are you really seeing a tiny baby in my womb right now? " And she was like " of course, I'm just taking the pictures first.. "

" So i'm really pregnant! Wow.. "

And so here is is the baby at 18 weeks. Amazing!

And then came the day when I first feel it kicks. I was lying down, preparing for bed and for the 1st time I feel it kick. This was such an exciting moment and I wanted to experience it in every possible way. First flutters was 2 series of 4s. I slept smiling that night.

Well that's just it for now. I shall continue this story another. Penning down my pregnancy experience would be the best memory I would ever remember it.

Till again.

A new life in me

2010-12-15T10:25:00.000+08:00

I planned my life when I reach 25. I thought it was quite late but then again it's never to late to start somewhere right.

I planned to get married at 26 which happened on 23rd August 2008, happily married to the man who turns my life around. We then decided to enjoy married life for about 2 years and planned for a start of a family. And to our delight, it went right according to plan.

After our 2nd wedding anniversary, we tried and I received such good news.

On 5th November , I bought a pregnancy test kit as I was late for my routine period. I was so happy yet so unsure if ot was real!

The test kit says I am pregnant. I thank Allah for the gift. It made both of us so happy, so much closer and probed that our love was ever-ly strong. But we decided to keep it a hush. We only told certain people and we avoid our parents so that they would not have to worry about me or even make me worry about me. I told my dearest sister of course and some close friends as they realise a drastic change in my lifestyle.

No smoking sheesha for me, no late nights and

And so I'm 9 weeks 5 days now and I'm going my all sort of test tomorrow and only god know how nervous I am. I hope that everything will go on smoothly for me and the baby. The concern hubby showed has been so exceptional. He had present me all his attention and care with no question asked.

Well wish me luck with the test and this happiness of mine will be shared.

Yay! I'm pregnant!

Upon My Word!

What's New?

2010-11-03T13:19:00.000+08:00

Dear Readers,

I hope you stumble upon my blog. But sad to see that it has not been updated.

I have been lost in the world of baking and technology.

A lot have asked on all my baking procedures and how I do it without any physical guidance and just a study from books, magazines and of course my fellow baking bloggers who have been generous with their tips.

I will feed all informations soon which most probably be in a different blog or should it be just in the same.

I'm still planning.

But if you have food for thoughts, please enlighten me.

Your sincerely,

Upon My Word!

The Thursday Date

2010-07-23T23:56:00.000+08:00

Every Thursdays I have a date. An official dating day which falls on his only fixed off day and a day which is always not so crowded anywhere.

This is what happens on last Thursday.

That's the end of our date.

Upon My Word!

Reinstitute

2010-07-17T16:26:00.000+08:00

I got busy pleasing people. And I gave up cause I definitely do not know how to suck up!

And so if that makes me the weakest link, by all means.

For that,I am undergoing a reinstitution.

With a group of certain people ready for this project, I'm sure with all our knowledge and experiences and most importantly , talent, we could rock it!

I called it Project Thousand Island '.

A group of 6 people sat down one day at Victory to eat murtabak where we all got inspired and all of us wanted to do smoething old and something new.

I'm sorry but I can't kiss & tell.This project is sacred to us.

We have 4 months to prepare this project, if we could pull it off, we will set the project sky high!

I am so excited to see what is going to presented for Christmas.

Well that's just another phase of my life.

Next chapter!

Last week, on the World Cup Final's day, I broke my darling's heart. Yup! I dropped it and it smashed and the lens now produces black borders when I shoot! That was the end of my 2 year old Nikon P60 camera. It was my first love combining digital with a DLSR look.

When everybody is going around and busy with the bulky and comparing "whose camera is better and more expensive". I was already contented with my P60. I know the SLR shoots great pictures but after all these ae all still pictures to me. Its not like I'm into professional photography or something. I don't understand people carrying this buky and heavy camera to weddings and dinners or a trip down town. You dressed up so nicely to be posh so I feel like these people are trying to outdo the professional cameraman out there. It's hilarious!

Back to basics, I was eyeing for those mini digital cameras again. Those which could slide it my pocket and out to snap anytime I want with no hassle lenses. With the technology so advance right now, I'm sure we could get a good quality lens digital camera which can shoot just as good.

For the past 6 months, I have been eyeing on the Olympus Tough series. i wanted something weather proof as I am gonna do a lot of travelling and capturing moments. And a little of my clumsiness so that even if the camera accidetally drops, it's still safe.

To my surprise, my husband, came home from his company's dinner and dance party with a present on his hand. Commonly I was just excited that he won something from the lucky draw and then he told he didn't. he won nothing this year. With his sheepish smile, he said that the present was for me.

I opened like a small kid at Christmas and VALA!

I got mt new Tough 3000 series in RED!!! My favourite colour. I tested and am very impress with the specs and modes. I found my new replacement!

Just you an me now, My Olympus.

No more cameras bigger than my clutch.

Upon My Word!

It's Father's Day today

2010-06-20T21:39:00.002+08:00

Happy Fathers Day

How I wished my Papa is still around.

Mohamed Noor Bin Mohd Ishak passed away when I was 16, when I was preparing for my 'O' Levels, dreaming of taking the adult world with him by my side the whole time. I remembered how my dream collapsed.

Let me tell you my story where the grass was never green before.

My mum ran away for good when I was only 9 months, leaving my 3 other sibling, 2 brothers and a sister to my dad. Being a man, he had to raised us on his own, work and makes sure we were safe. He wasn't that strong of a man where he was under a great influence of coke. He knew he could not keep me safe. He sent me away to my aunts place where my sibling will only follow me occasionally. I was already broken then.

I had 3 guardians in total, being me , I was cute and irresistable to parents who does not have kids or daughters. But they just couldn't keep up.Not because I was a bad kid, but my surroundings are ever changing..... ( paused..)

I'm sorry but I really could go on with my story with these tears in my eyes just remembering...

But maybe I will continue another day.

But to note, all bad things that happen to me had made me a better person and the person I want to be today. I am very independent, strong and have always been positive.

When I was 16, I told myself that I will take my dad, build us a home and live happily ever after once I step the working world, just the 3 of us with my sister. But Papa had heart attack on my Speech Day , 25th July 1998. My dream collapsed and I wasn't left with any back ups. I got lost. I rebelled! I didn't rest till 23.

But now I have a new dream.

I have found happiness and will soon build my own family. I will make sure my family will always feel complete even when we are not filled with luxury.

I miss you papa.

That is papa and myself together with my ex-stepmother and ex-stepbrother

Happy Father's Day to my 1 and only father. My 'doa' is always with you.

On a good note I should work on making that family of mine.

We are married for 1 year and 10 months now. We have planned for a baby in 2011. If god is willing and all goes well, Insya'allah.

I'm sure he will be a great dad - soon!

But first Bali and Amsterdam!

(P.S: I have been real busy)

Upon My Word!

Mother's Day Specials

2010-05-11T21:29:00.000+08:00

I did quite a bit on the Mother's Day weekend.

Unfortunately, I have no picture. I swore I carried my Nikon camera around but we all just forget to take pictures.

Honestly, I'm in no mood of taking pictures due to the weight gain. The thyroid
is kinda bringing my self esteem down a little.

But nevertheless, I'm always out to make people happy.

And so I have decided to give my mum-in-law a treat. A tribute to her for her unfailing duty to pamper us as much as she still could. She's a great cook, an understanding mother - panicky sometimes, fun to tease and most importantly she never ask for more.

I knew how much she loves Le Caire Food, dad-in-law too. Being me, I would not want to dine there as I'm like there everyday. Their favorite dish was Mandhi Kharouf ( Baby lamb cooked with spice in rice ), a main course I had during my wedding. And so Cafe Le Caire it was.

But before that, I had fun at home baking some Mother's day treats. I baked Cornflake Flats on Saturday - it's finished! , Hazelnut Surpirse - 2 bottles finished and 1/2 bottle left and white assorted bread on Sunday.

I had fun.

I took pictures of my creations though.

Almost everyone get to try it and their feedback was best ever. Thank you guys for your support and my husband for being the number 1 fan of my creations.

And back to my mother's day story.

We brought the family out shopping at the Eco Mall, City Square. I fell in love with that place. Not crowded, a lot of food and most importantly all the shops have reasonable pricings. Unlike ION Orchard, it's huge and the number of shops I go into is so limited. I am not a brand conscious. I don;t go around carrying and showing off that name. I hate it. I'm not saying I do not have any of them, I do, but it's definitely not something you carry around everyday. I'm very practical, simple and cheap! hahaha.

After shopping, we enjoyed a great feast at Cafe Le Caire, where our food was readily served right on time when we arrived ( it was pre-ordered of course! ). Little Zhafir was complaining that he was too hungry to carry on shopping and that when we called the Cafe and ordered. So easy when you have the menu at your finger tips. We were famished too by 7pm.

I enjoyed Mother's Day. I love making them happy and hoping that my future children felt the exact same way as I did.

P.S: A tribute to my sister too. It was her day but she cooked Crab Noodle on Sunday where we siblings slumber at West Coast, enjoying the movies and the rain and the Legendary Crab Noodle.

I love all Mothers!

P.S.S: I promised more pictures in the future. Father's Day is next month!

Upon My Word!

Rihlah Hadrami

2010-04-27T23:00:00.001+08:00

Sometimes just pictures tells the story.

Venue: The National Library

Event : Rihlah Hadrami & Middle East Bazaar

If you have questions, drop me a mail. I'll be happy to answer.

Upon My Word!

Shaz & Mathathir Wedding

2010-04-27T22:24:00.001+08:00

I was there to listen to her when they first met.

I was there to see she dressed up to go on a date with him.

I was there when they had a first phone fight.

And now we are all there for their wedding!

Congratulation Shaz & Mat.

May you guy be bless with a lot of babies.

We were quite amazed that a lot of "stars" were around. Mostly veterans. Wonder who they were related to.

It was fun to go to a wedding where people mind their own business. Stay in your group of love.

I'm going to have more weddings this weekend, 2 weekends from now and a lot in June, my sister in July and my best friend in October and a client in November.

And I'm sure I'm only going to enjoy 2 wedding out of 10. One , cause it's my sister and the other my best friend.

For those who is getting married this year - All the best and make yours a memorable one.

Upon My Word!

Be right Back

2010-04-27T19:35:00.000+08:00

My updates are so long due.

My readers are running out of articles to read.

I promised 2 entries by tonight.

One would be an entry of th Rihlah Hadrami which I went to a week ago and the other is about weddings.

I'll go freshen up now and after dinner, I'll be ready with a fresh mind .

Will be right back!

Upon My Word!

I miss Baking

2010-04-18T18:49:00.000+08:00

It has been 2 weeks I'm at work. As much as I enjoy working at the new place, I greatly miss my baking sessions.

I finished my training and I'm good to go out on the field. Traveling soon - I hoped! I realize that I would be busy form Mondays to Fridays as I'm also packed with 3 wedding plannings. 1 in July and 2 in October.

How do created the wedding cake? I wish I have 14 days in a week where 7 days are weekends!.

As I was lazing around in my room today, I was browsing through all my cook books. I seriously didn't realize that I have been collecting them since school days. I also kept a personal cook book which is more than 10 years. These are some of my collection which I was reading today.

Then again I realize that baking is not something new to me, it was a passions which has always been in me. From buying the ingredients, to mixing it and then present it to your love ones has always been a pleasurable experience. I remember that I would keep grumbling if I made something wrongly or it just won't turn out right.

I miss baking.

I love how it kept me busy and how happy they were when I serve them with my treats. I accepted suggestions and criticisms openly just to make myself better.

Since I'm out of ingredients and and today seems to be a perfectly lazy Sunday and moreover nobody is home, I won't bother.

But I'm prepared for next week. I'll most probably would be making brownies and cookies.

I will be back with more delicacies.

More Jalabiya updates soon! I have found really nice places to buy!

Upon My Word

Japanese Ramen

2010-04-10T16:04:00.001+08:00

I have been craving for Japanese Ramen for a while now. Sadly I could only find one and only halal certified Ramen shop here in Singapore - Ramen Ten. Since Ramen Ten dishes quality has gone absurdly bad, I decided to make my own servings. And so I googled! I only take recipes which are based on a lot of reviews and these is what I've picked up.

The Ramen I love most would be Beef Ramen cooked in beef broth and Spicy Chicken Ramen. I would share with you the recipe where the ingredients could easily be found at our nearby supermarkets like NTUC, Cold Storage, Market Place or Giant and Carrefour.

Spicy Beef Ramen Noodles ( Serves 2 )

Main Ingredients

2 sirloin / faux filet steaks
300g fresh ramen / egg noodles
4 spring onions
Half red onion
Handful bean sprouts ( Optional - As I hate these )
Handful coriander / cilantro
1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce

Soup Ingredients
1.5 litres chicken ( You may buy ready chicken broth if you like - less oily)
3 tablespoons chili sauce
5 tablespoons nam pla (Thai fish sauce)

Directions:

Mix the chili sauce and the nam pla in a bowl
Heat the chicken stock in a pan and add the chili sauce and nam pla mix
Finely chop the spring onions and the chili into fine strips. Finely cut the red onion into semi-circles
Divide the noodles between two large soup bowls
Finely chop the spring onions and the chili into fine strips. Finely cut the red onion into semi-circles
Boil a kettle and blanch the bean sprouts in boiling water for 30 seconds. Then drain and rinse with cold water
Divide the bean sprouts and chili between the two bowls
Lightly coat the steaks in oil. Sear for 2 minutes on both sides. Baste with the teriyaki sauce. Then cover and rest for 2 minutes
Slice the steaks into thin strips and divide them between the two bowls and top with the chopped spring onions
Quickly ladle the soup over. Garnish with coriander

This recipe is courtesy of Open Source Food.

Next I would like to share a Spicy chicken ramen recipe. You may top this with golden poach eggs if you like and it would be perfect!

Chilli Chicken Ramen ( Serves 4 )
Spicy noodle soup topped with chicken, beansprouts and spring onions

Ingredients
--------------------
Chicken Marinade
--------------------

4 chicken breasts (I use boned chicken thighs because they are cheaper and more flavoursome)
2 tablespoons of sake (I skip this as this is not halal)
2 tablespoons Korean Chili paste (or any kind of red chilli paste - I use Thai red curry chilli paste)
2 teaspoons of sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
light soy sauce – enough to mix with ingredients above and coat the chicken.

Coat the chicken with marinade and leave for at least an hour in fridge.
----------------------
Ramen Chili sauce.
---------------------
Ingredients
1 bottle of hot chili sauce (not sweet chilli sauce)
20ml brown vinegar (3 tablespoons)
75ml Fish sauce (6tablespoons)
10g sugar (1 tablespoon)

Mix together well, make sure the vinegar is completely dispersed
Once mixed up, this stuff lasts forever in the fridge.

-----------------------
Chili Chicken Ramen
-----------------------

In addition to the above you will need
Chicken stock – 2 litres
Coriander (one clump)
One red Onion
4 Chilis
Fresh beansprouts ( Optional again! )
Noodles
Lime wedges

I also add any of the following: mushrooms, sliced capsicum (red pepper), spring onions, lemongrass, ginger – all to boost nutrition value.

Heat the stock but don't let boil.
Boil two separate pots of water, about 500ml
Chop the vegies and the coriander.
Grill or Broil the chicken breasts.
When the chicken is done, slice the chicken.

Ingrediants that don't need boiling are: red onion, spring onions, coriander, lime and chopped chilli - set these aside.

Throw the beansprouts, mushrooms, lemongrass, capsicum into the boiling pot of water for about four minutes.

At the same time that the vegetables are boiling, boil the noodles according to the directions on the packet - time it so that they will be ready at the same time the vegetables are.

Pour one to two tablespoons of the chili sauce into the bottom of the four serving bowls.

Pour the stock, then add a bed of noodles into each bowl.

Drain the vegetables.

Layer the chicken on top of the noodles, add a chopped chili, a generous handful of coriander and a quarter of the assorted vegetables.

Serve with soy sauce and chilli oil to ramp up the heat if desired.

Well for those who want to try Japanese and enjoy that weekend at home - Try it!

Trust me it's nothing like Maggie Mee or any instant noodles. hahahaha!

Upon My Word!

Where I've been..

2010-04-06T21:40:00.000+08:00

I've been busy.

I have to stop baking this week onwards cause I started working full-time.

After waiting for 1 and a half month of reply, it finally paid off. I got as irresistible offer from a well known company in UK and USA which was set up by a Dutch. The pay was awesome, the working hours is reasonable. Apart from that I got 21 days of annual leave and as long as a public holiday falls on a weekend, the office will be close on Monday. Great perks! And since the company has only been set up 2 years in Singapore, I get to be a pioneer and after a year a senior. The best thing I love about it, I get to travel to other offices like the ones in Sydney, Amsterdam, Dubai and more.

And so sadly my baking journey will pause for a while but I will definitely be back on weekends after training and after I manage to buy the new Chef Master Mixer.

More cupcakes this time - Definitely.

Thank you all my readers for still coming to check on my stories and I will update this more often after training ok!

Oh and if you are wondering which company I'm working for.. Hmmm.

P.S: Guess what...

Upon My Word!

The 1st Accident

2010-03-28T23:03:00.001+08:00

It was my day out with my girl friends. All pre-planned and booked at the Carousel. As I was picking up the food at the buffet counters, I heard my phone rang. I was faraway to answer it. As I reach my dining table the phone rang again. I thought it was just a random call my husband always make, to let me know that already at work.

But it was different.

He called to inform me that he was in an ambulance, on the way to the hospital. I thought he was sending someone to the hospital. But then he told me that Farhan's bike skidded while he was on his way to work and he flew off the bike.

The food I was having wasn't tasty anymore. I got worried, wanting to leave my friends at the dinner table. But baby was so calm, saying that he did not have any major injuries and had asked me to stay wherever I was and he will keep me informed of whatever conditions.

After a few hours, we met. Thanks to Fadli who fetch him from the hospital.

I was so worried for him. My husband has always been a careful driver even when he tries to speed. I've been with him for 6 years now and he has never met with an accident before , driving any car. It raged me when the accident is caused by a reckless rider. Anyone of you could die and nobody wants that. You all have your loved ones around and you would not want to leave them hanging just by being reckless. It's self-fish!

Alhamdullilah , everyone was ok.

And so let me show the injured pillon. :)

Yah.. He looks in pain? No he's not.. He's just tired of waiting at the hospital.

That was the time he met with the accident.

Though he flew quite a distance, He landed on his hands and knees but only 1 knee was badly hurt.

The accident summary.

I'm ok , seeing that he's ok. I just couldn't afford to see him hurt. He's my life.

To all drivers and riders, please make the roads a safer place.

Upon My Word!

Troubled

2010-03-15T17:22:00.000+08:00

Gandhi said - "Whatever you do in life would be insignificant but you do it because it's important"

I asked - "Important for who?" - No answers.

What happens when you do not have a direction in life?

Or is it always better to live by the day?

What happens when your friend turns into a foe, family turns to strangers and soul mates turn to hell mates?

What should we do?

How do we change the butterfly effect?

Money is always the caused of all evil, and for those who has alot is the most evil!

I'm troubled!

Upon My Word!

Cupcakes Quest

2010-03-10T20:49:00.001+08:00

When I asked my husband, "Could you pay for my cupcake classes?".

As usual, he answered, "Hmmm, in April can..". And so as I do not want to wait for April as the class conductor will be away to Brisbane for the whole month, I paid an attended the class yesterday. It was worth my money spent.

At 1.30pm , I reached at Kak Normah's abode. She stay in a massionette in Tampines. For somebody who do breads, cakes, and cookies for weddings and hari raya, her house was superbly clean, tidy and beautiful. I like it already. Her house was decorated y mini cuppies ceramics. Sweet!

The class was supposed to make me learn on how to make cupcakes from scratch. How the butter cakes was made to butter cream, royal icing and all sorts of decorations.

These are my beautiful chocolate butter cake. The tip to make it same size. Weigh every cup to the same weight.

While waiting for all the cakes to finish baking, she served with with her home-made sausage rolls and walnut buns. It was delicious!

This was all the cakes I baked! There was 3 flavors altogether, Lemon cake, blueberry cake and chocolate.

Decorating Time !!!

I had to whisk the cream. (not me literally - the machine does it all). 2 types of cream , marshmallow butter cream and royal icing. ( i wonder why it was called royal? )

The piping method was the easiest for me. I love butter cream and I could play with a lot of colors.

Not to forget , I made one for my Super Sleeper, Eena, ( I didnt have the space to put Sleeper )

The royal icing was a little challenging.

But this was the hardest! - Fondant. Trying to make a face needs the right color and utensils and a lot lot of creativity.

All these cakes were ready by 5pm.

This was after "maghrib" ..

And all these at 9.30pm. That's right! I spent 8 hours making 38 standard size cupcakes and 17 mini cuppies.

Phew!

And then I was a happy girl, giving away my home made cupcakes to people I meet.

Presenting my cupcake creations for a beginner!

click image to enlarge
Nice?

You want to learn too?

Can.... Details below.

Cupcakes Class

You will learn how to make cupcakes and more! 2 most popular types of recipe will be given. Learn how to make royal icing and icing cream and the decoration methods. Bring home roughly 30 cupcakes home. Treat yourself to a day of indulging in cupcakes - from baking perfect cupcakes to making sumptuous buttercream and dabbling in sugarcraft.
Etc of class photos : http://ncakes.multiply.com/photos/album/147/Ncakes_Dream_Bake_CUPCAKES_One_To_One_Class

Upon My Word!

Downturn & Upcomings

2010-03-02T18:18:00.000+08:00

I have been keeping a secret.

Well here it is, I resigned for my job last month and my last day was the last 22nd February. I found it too stressful and it wasn't something I wanted to do again and again. And so I quit.

I do not know if it was a wise decision but thinking that I have work for 11 years and have never stop and rest. Now would be the best time, it's just no the best in money sense and I do have bills to pay.

Now, I am not actively looking for a job but actively baking in the kitchen and pursuing what I have always dream about doing.

To date I have baked:

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Honey Cornflakes

Cocoa Cornflakes

Strawberry Custart Tart

Ham, Mushroom & Cheese Mini Quiche

And then I have to bake Quiche Lorraine on Friday for Bhai Faris and family as he requested. Fried popiah skin today , and white chocolate cornflakes tomorrow.

It is very interesting to let people eat.

And well as I am unemployed now, I have given a proposal to Le Caire Events to set up Le Caire Wedding. The boss had agreed to let me run it. You won't know how glad I am.

So I have been researching alot of wedding deco designs. Morrocon themes mostly. I would be busy! Being unemployed is even much busier that employed.

Here are some beautiful ideas for Le Caire Weddings.

It's just about putting my hands and feet to work now.

One very ery good news for me!

I have been offered to sign up for a Pastry Chef scholarship! It's a 17 months course and I would cross trains at hotels. - Hopefully I could get in.

Pray for me for everything is smooth sailing and to be back in place.

Upon My Word!

To All My Dearest February Babies

2010-03-01T01:36:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday to me, one of the February babies.

It was quite a quiet month where Birthdays are not too over-whelmed. I love it mostly cause it makes me feel important on how I celebrated my own birthday this month.

As I do not have much birthday babies, I'm going to tell you how I celebrated it.. Exclusively!

First thing first. This is my February babies list.

6th Feb - Mohd Fadilla

It has been a tough year for you last year. But since you did turn 28 this year, I hoped that you grew stronger and wiser as ever. We, your friends has always been here to support. Never fail to make you laugh.

Happy Birthday - From your buddies!

9th Feb - Khusma Baker

Kak Kus! Happy Birthday!!! Thank you for your birthday treat drink!

18th Feb - Eddie Idwar Noor

My eldest brother , I believe you are 10 years older than me and that makes you 38. Wah so old already!

Happy Birthday Bro!

And that's it! That was my list.

I celebrated my birthday at RCA, a royal Thai club in Bangkok called Route66. And yes I promised you pictures but this is as much and as far I can let you see. :)

Happy Birthday Feb babies! Feb people are the best of all months, at least I thought so.

(it too me 3 hrs to finish up this blog as I'm watching 3 movies altogether. I watched Meet The Morgan, Leap Year and now finally My Best friend's Girlfriend. Movies drag me badly.)

Upon My Word!

Jalabiya & Me

2010-02-24T16:46:00.001+08:00

For me, it was time of the year where you decide what to make for the festive. The dates were getting earlier and maybe I have become the type who had learned so much of doing things last minute.

I need a good seamstress.

Again like every year, for 4 years now, the main outfit will be the jalabiya. Lovee has never liked "baju kurung" but agreed that it would be the 2nd simplest outfit, he gave up on Punjabi suits. He claimed that just by looking at people wearing them, both girls and boys, he gets restless and hot. No doubt, sometimes the material can be so irritating.

And so I was looking at my old pictures of me wearing jalabiyas, I really need a new design and colors.

My old faces

Not too bad with Baju kurong what!

Not bad with punjabi suits either at all but still hot!

I'm still universal , I would wear anything whenever I can. But jalabiyas has been the most comfortable, simple and easiest to wear and match. I love it. This year I'm looking for a fashion of which is a little different and daring.

This is gorgeous! I would just need to add sheer sleeves maybe for the cover ups.

I've collected these pretty pieces, going to Bandung soon ( I hoped hard) to get pretty fabrics otherwise Arab street which is going to be very expensive. Printing these designs out and find a perfect seamstress.

Any recommendations anybody?

Upon My Word!

Choose A Cake

2010-02-22T00:44:00.004+08:00

This whole week was cake searching week for me. Ask the cake decorators if they were creative enough to such designs, asked for quotations and most importantly , ask the bride if she was happy with it . I felt that I'm getting married all over again but in a totally different theme.

All this for you,Yannie. Thank you for making me your bridesmaid a.k.a maid.

Her choice of color is red. unique and pretty. The cake would be going with a cream, gold and brown theme. I swear it's not easy choosing a cake design. It is also a little hard when you have a million options to choose.

I have narrowed down some preferred designs and really hope to get my readers opinion on your choice. You may just leave me a note at the chatter box. (no id required)

Click on the pictures to emlarge.

Let's see the cupcakes or small cakes choices. I personally feel that this is convenient as at the end of the ceremony, you may easily give it away to guests. No cutting and no mess. Though it's a pretty common trend now, we could use our creativity to create something different.

These are either cupcakes and small cakes. No.4 would be my personal favorite as it would look like small little presents when you gave them away. Pretty unique and practical.

These would be more of a glamorous side and very very uncommon. The rhinestones would make your cakes glitters and noticeable even from far. Simple but extremely elegant.

These are the traditional wedding cakes. I choose No 1 !! I like the drawings on the cake. Little birds and butterflies.These are hard coated icing.It has to be hard as it need to sit at the podium for hours. Heavy and hard to handle but it's classic and traditional.

The whimsical cakes are highly unique and will definitely make a statement at your wedding. Most called it Topsy Turvys. If statement you are looking for , this is definitely it!

The gift boxes cakes. I love these as it really does not look like cakes! Who would guess that these are cakes. They look more like you gifts stacked altogether.

The pillow cakes are one of a kind. Huge and extravagant! Costly I must say but we can always ask the decorators to shrink the size.

That was all my findings after a week. I had hard time choosing and now you have to help me make a decision.

My personal favourites are :

See! I'm as fickle as the bride.

If you are wondering if all my findings are local. No they are not. Not many talented Singaporean bakers but I do know a few. My advise when looking for a wedding cake would be , get your favorite design and then ask your local cake decorator if he/she is able to create it and get a quotation. In my multiply contacts, there are a lot of decorators would are able to test their creativity and I've seen a lot of good results.

Finally help me! Vote for a cake.

Upon My Word!

Where Nabin's @

2010-02-20T00:44:00.000+08:00

That day we thought, let have something different. We went on.

The way I 'd described the place to him after me last visit with my girlfriends, had made him curious.

We went to Nabin's. It was introduced to me like a so called "Arab's Club". Not quite for me.

It was more of a true cozy arabic theme, chillin' the luxurious way.

I lurrrrrrrrrrve it!

Having the light and delicious potato boat ( We wished it was more of a potato cruise instead! ) and my favorite glass of Mango Yogurt Milkshake.

The place was private, cozy and huge!

He definitely could do without it. It has a great kick taste with a "special" blend.

We huggle, snuggle and smooched!

The performing stage. No metal music here Mr.

A very very spacious and comfortable setting.

And then we may want to hold a private party here. oohhh... Belly costumes only..

Well then.. After all that we went back to basics. A private time well spent. We then socialise.

With My Cat!

At Cafe Le Caire of course. My little baby was waiting for me to feed her..

Moral of the story is :

You may be curious and always wants to try new things but at the end of the day , you would need to remember your roots.

Upon My Word!

The Fear by Lily Allen

2010-02-17T21:26:00.000+08:00

Some have asked what song is these playing on my blog, well it's The Fear by Lily Allen.

I love the lyrics so much! It's a real life happening.

Something for me to share. <3

I want to be rich and I want lots of money
I don’t care about clever I don’t care about funny
I want loads of clothes and f***loads of diamonds
I heard people die while they are trying to find them

I’ll take my clothes off and it will be shameless
‘Cuz everyone knows that’s how you get famous
I’ll look at the sun and I’ll look in the mirror
I’m on the right track yeah I’m on to a winner

I don’t know what’s right and what’s real anymore
I don’t know how I’m meant to feel anymore
When we think it will all become clear
‘Cuz I’m being taken over by The Fear

Life’s about film stars and less about mothers
It’s all about fast cars and cussing each other
But it doesn’t matter cause I’m packing plastic
and that’s what makes my life so f***ing fantastic

And I am a weapon of massive consumption
and its not my fault it’s how I’m program to function
I’ll look at the sun and I’ll look in the mirror
I’m on the right track yeah I’m on to a winner

I don’t know what’s right and what’s real anymore
I don’t know how I’m meant to feel anymore
When we think it will all become clear
‘Cuz I’m being taken over by The Fear

Forget about guns and forget ammunition
Cause I’m killing them all on my own little mission
Now I’m not a saint but I’m not a sinner
Now everything is cool as long as I’m getting thinner

I don’t know what’s right and what’s real anymore
I don’t know how I’m meant to feel anymore
When we think it will all become clear
‘Cause I’m being taken over by fear

Enjoy the song, understand the lyrics.

Upon My Word!

Bake Basics

2010-02-16T21:45:00.002+08:00

I was reading my Baking Basics and did a little homework on measurements and directions while working today ( there was not much calls J ). It’s amazing how the smallest little step could be the most important one.

And so I did realize that all my equipments which I had bought every now and then, since aged 17 were either missing ,as I moved around a lot since I that time ( not easy to be an orphan ) or taken or rust in time.

As I wanted to get serious with my passion, I came out with…

A very long shopping list.

It’s for my new kitchen in training. New baking try-outs. And the re-invention of the cookie classics.

For Bake Ware

4 Baking Trays ( make sure it won’t bend or warp during baking )

8x8 inch Cake Tin ( loose base preferably )

12 holes Fairy Cakes Tin – I can try making cupcakes

2 Muffin tins / Sillicone ( flexible/heatproof )

10x15 inch (25x38cm) Swiss Roll Tin

Spring form tin ( for cheesecakes )

Tart Tin ( several sizes )

Everyday Essentials

Balloon Whisk

Scone Cutter & any other cute ones

Measuring jug ( wonder where’s my old one )

Stainless Steel Mixing bowl – 3 different sizes

Pastry Brush

Long Wooden Rolling Pin ( to knock your head )

Skewer (to test the cakes )

2 x Wire Rack ( to cool myself off )

The shopping list is getting more and more intense for me. As of now I’m sure you should know what I need all these for. For my hobby cum job to be cum homework.

Well, I’m not finished yet, there’s still some more.

Added Extras

Baking Beans ( these are ceramic beans for pastries )

Palette knife ( to kill the cream )

A good Food Mixer – Could I afford these??

Icing/Piping bags and nozzles for decorating.

Phew!

Who said baking was easy and cheap?

It’s not simple , it’s definitely not affordable for some. I would say that it would be crazy for me to buy all at 1 time with a coconut budget. And even just a 2 weeks culinary course cost $3500. It takes me a year to save up!!

Nonetheless, baking is my passion. Giving something that I have baked to someone I love is a real generosity.

I would do everything to make it right.

I prayed that this would really bring me somewhere I always wanted to be – Happy

Upon My Word!

Super Bored-NESS!!

2010-02-14T21:09:00.000+08:00

It's really a boring day for me today.

I woke up 12pm on which the alarm had snooze since 10.30am , had lunch. It was a delicious Macaroni Lamb soup which my mum-in-law had cooked. Then watched TV - I see crap , turned on my Facebook and played Bejeweled - got bored. My husband went to work at 4pm in which he will come back only at 2am and then continued my movie marathon till now when I decided to write about my dreadful un-exiting day.

This is one of the days I feel like I want to just stay in my room , watch unconditionally sad romantic movies and cry, wondering if life would be any better.

I have those days where its really mundane. But I didn't! Instead I watched a horror movie : Drag Me to Hell and an old time favorite : School of Rock. I'm still waiting for Eena who is frying her nibbles now to watch another movie with me - Couples Retreat. I waited for her since 5pm! Like Hyder ( my husband ), she starts her day really late too. Only when the moon is glowing then their eyes are gleaming, Like Draculas or Vampires. :)

I thank god for not giving me any urge to go out today as it is Chinese New Year and I expected most places or shopping areas are close and also it's Valentine's Day. Though I do not celebrate this event (but had always love to give away small prezzies to friends only), it would still be sickening to see all these couples with flowers, balloons and presents walking around. Especially when I'm walking out alone!

Ok! I'll stop now!!!

Going to watch Couples Retreat as that woman just came in and said play on now.

(I'm going back to the mode where I wonder if life could be better) - Again!

Upon My Word!

Re-Union Dinner

2010-02-13T18:01:00.002+08:00

The usual group of us gathered at the usual hang out. All just to have our re-union dinner. Having a multi-cultural group of friends we tend to celebrate all occasions. And with all these we hoped to be united forever.

Little that we know that it's our "Tauke Leong" who gave us a treat.

The Menu:

Lamb

Beef , Prawns and Chicken Salad

And fish!

Together served with Rice and egg muffin - We were full!

Pig-out session

Thank you Tauke Leong. May you have a prosperous and wonderful new year. Please don't pig-out!

To all Chinese mates:

Gong Xi Fa Cai! And a happy happy new year!

Upon My word!

Bake! Cuppa Gold-Flakes!

2010-02-10T19:54:00.001+08:00

It has been 2 months already since I'm working on my own Bake! shop.

A venture I always wanted to do since I was young and a hobby and business altogether as I reach 30 years old. I do not have magical baking hands but I had this interest since my teens and I had received a lot of compliments of my baking results. I'm still learning though and hopefully to earn that certificate pretty soon.

I've been working on the flash website and I'm still doing a lot of editing and picture takings for the website. I'm so excited and I hope my readers would be excited for me too. More details would be shared, maybe later when the website is almost done.

Besides the point, today I made our all-time favorite Honey Cornflakes which I named Cuppa Gold-flakes. I love this cornflakes in a cup so much that every time I go visiting during the festive seasons, I would look out for it and personally gave my verdict and started to create my own trial and error to perfect the taste and texture.

These are specially made for my Chinese friends who are celebrating their festive this weekend. And thank you for your orders. Though I'm not official yet, I would still take the random orders to keep my joy of baking going.

These are made of cornflakes, honey and chopped almonds. Simple & delicious.

I made a lot more extras for nibblers at home as as you know it , the bottle was half empty 10 mins after i put it all in. Luckily, I did hide 2 trays in the oven.

And these are my Cuppa Gold-Flakes. Ready to be eaten and sent out!

Baking was fun.

Gong Xi Fa Cai and Happy New Year to all my Chinese friends and colleagues.

Upon My Word!

Wild Wild Suprise

2010-02-09T18:58:00.002+08:00

Last Saturday , I went down to Wild Wild Wet with Love. We used to be regular patrons there but ever since we parted for work, WWW was neglected. February is my birthday month and birthday babies gets to go in for free! Why not use the privilege?

And so we woke up at noon and reach Downtown East about 2pm for lunch. When the sun was really high up, it was a great day for me to catch up on my tanning sessions. I love tanning as it give my body a glow and even tones.

Here I am all oiled up!

I wasn't that tan though but I just love the process of doing it. I never liked being fair.

Hyder had his swim he had been longing for. He kept asking me to go but I had always rejected it. But since I'm on leave, might as well fulfil his wish before he's going to have a haircut for his reservist in March.

He was playing with his waterproof vcam till the cam suddenly went bonkers. There goes my $799 ..

I did not exactly swim that day. All I did was lazing around with the air float enjoying the hot sun. I lazed at Tsunami and the Syiok River. And lastly was the waterfall jacuzzi.. Awesome!

Never ever go to the beach or swimming without Pringles. It's the best thing to have compared to sandwiches or fatty "nasi lemak".

At around 5.30, we ended our lazing pool session. I really hate having to take my shower at the Bikini Bay where most of the places are wet. Thank god there was not too many people, I manage to get a dry changing area. But make up was still done in the car. I didn't want to risk it at Bikini Bay.

Me, all dolled up by the time we reach ECP. Love brought me to Peninsular to get his latest collection of Gamma Ray DVD. He was so happy to get it , he get so careful with it.

We then had our dinner at Komalas. I used to like eating there, Bhatura is my favourite meal. But the standard of food totally drop at Komalas. They gave us a microwaved hot Idly and Vadai which get totally cold after 5 min on the table. And Hyder had ordered Naan which comes from an instant Naan box. And the Bhatura dough was not that fluffy anymore.

Dissapointment to Komalas!

And of course i suggested to go to the nearest shopping mall which is Raffles. Quite a number of sales gooing on but I did not buy anything as money was recently splurged in Bangkok.

But I could not resist buying chocolates from Cocoa Trees. And I enjoyed the scenery of good food.

Love on the other hand, was more excited about the letter "H"

Lastly, we always ended our day at the Cafe. So after Raffles, we proceed to the cafe as usual. As I sat down, I was surprised by Syafiq and Love with a birthday cake. I was shocked! My birthday ended 5 days ago and because I did not follow the tradition of cutting the cake at the cafe this year, they relive it for me. How Sweet!

There I was shamelessly blowing of the 28th candle! Didnt realize I got so old!

And then a 2nd surprse came. Fadli and Ziana came popping from the back giving me the adorable present!
An Aldo watch with changeable straps. i adore it!

It was nice cake sharing and it was my first time cutting a Mango cake for my birthday. Strange but nice.
Thank you Love and Syafiq for the unexpected surprise.

And so I went back collating all the present I got!

The ones I received and thank you all for your thoughts! I celebrate my birthday for the whole month and so I'm still open for more presents. :)

Don't be shy to give cause I would not be shy to receive. Hahahaha.

Upon My Word!

Bangkok 5 day Experience

2010-02-05T22:03:00.004+08:00

Sawadeeka ~ Welcome

My first entry of February would of course be about my birthday and the most recent first trip with my friends and family to Bangkok.

As promised, here are the juices.

I had just finished choosing the pictures wisely to place in my blog. No matter how I wanted to minimize the number, I just could not. There was too much to share.

It all started on 30th January 2010.

DAY 1

I woke up at 5am to go to the airport of which I slept at 3.30am. I was excited, nervous ( I always have jitters when I take the plane ), sleepy, tired and just recovered. I had a 7.10am flight. The time where most people are really groggy. It was my first time flying Tiger Airways. It was a 1 dollar cheap deal ticket which I got and so why not! It gets me to the destination anyway.

It was my first time seeing a Thailand immigration card so.. "Jakun lah" !

And when we finally arrived.. I was like.. " B.. We are finally in Bangkok! I can't believe it!!! "

Take picture please.. :)

Right after immigration we hailed a cab and check in to the hotel . I was so hungry! Our GPS, Justin and Eileen brought me to Soi 11, Tom Yum and "Halal" beef balls I could never forget.. So yummy.

This is the hotel we checked in for 5 days and 4 nights. Who would not want to stay in 5-star ? The service was not great though. They were grouchy. It was not comparable to Westin Langkawi at all.

I actually don't know what is the name of this restaurant but what I know is they serve great phad thai and located at Sukhumvit Soi 11. I really love the settings. We get to sit down on the floor with cushion like "kampong". It was really a good introduction as it gives me a brand new perception of Tom Yum.

We were then introduced to a drink called chai-yan ( for ice tea ) and cafe-yan ( for ice coffee ). It's made of really thick tea or coffee, mixed with condensed milk, sugar and evaporated milk. The Thais were really generous with their amount of milk in that drink which makes that drink really sweet but its mixed with 1 cup of the drink to 2 cups of ice and so it makes it taste awesome!

This was our favorite for 5 days and it only cost 15baht ~ 65cents (SGD)

We then explored all Bangkok shopping center by taking their BTS ( like our LRT in Singapore ) and I love The Dining Paradise at Paragon. I could not resist anything they were selling. The Gourmet Market was so huge and I was surprised that I bought about 10 items and it only cost me about SGD$12. You can never, able to spend that amount at NTUC with 10 items for $12 unless you are buying sweets.

We ended our day by an hour of foot, head and shoulder massage at Asian Herbs Spa, where all the guys were snoring away and we could not really enjoy the serene atmosphere and after that eating seafood where I was quite terrified as the dogs were actually running around us. It's a norm in Thailand.

Day 2

We woke up at 9am to go to the weekend only market Chatuchak. This place is already bustling in the morning. We had breakfast and then started to go for a shopping spree. I got to know that we could order and customize our furniture there and they are able to ship it back to Singapore and all these at a low cost. We could also asked them to replicate designer furniture and so we so not have to spend so much on the brand. How lucky of me to know. I could make my house look like a million dollar - BAHT. haha

The street food in Chatuchak was many. Too many!

We spent about 5- 6 hours there as that place is so huge and when you shop, I don't think you could realize that the times flies there.

After a long day of walking, we then go to Asian Herbs Spa and have our sensual 2 hr massage and scrub. It's so cheap that we actually go there everyday.

A foot, head and shoulder massage cost THB$350 ~ SGD$14 while a pure oil masage cost THB$750 ~ SGD$30 per hour.

Rejuvenated , we then head back to our hotel, rest and got ready for dinner.

We happen to attend the motor bike show. So many bikes and beers.

Justin then brought us to Soi Cowboy to see the cheap lane of girls. Something like our red like district. Dodgy!

Tired from shopping and exploring, we ended day 2 with cocktails and mocktails at the Westin Zest lounge.

Day 3

Sister finally arrived. She was even more excited than I was.

We went to shop at The Platinum mall which is a wholesale place where when you buy a lot, it's much much cheaper.

I bought a lot of accessories for everyone, shoes, bags and clothes. It was quite hard to find my size though as all their sizes are small but it was worth buying any other stuffs like slippers, shoes, bags and even bikinis.

It would not be complete for me if we do not get a tuk tuk ride. And so with a good bargain plus a pack of cigarette we head back to our hotel to get ready for the party that night.

Our Tuk Tuk moment.

We all then went for massage again.

All ready, handsome, beautiful and nice. We had dinner at a highly recommended egyptian restaurant - Nefertiti

And after dinner, we head to RCA for the party in posh.. The clubs were all so hip and cool. So cozy and comfortable. They have restrooms like the queens would have. We clubbed at Route 66.

Here are some sneaks of the party as most others are censored. hahaha

Day 4

By Day 4, we were tired. Very tired. So day 4 was a relax day for us. Have light shopping, massage and manicure and pedicure. With no make up, casual wear, we walk all around.

Day 5

It was our last day in Bangkok. I do not want to leave but we all had too. Our pocket were getting dryer each day by all that shopping and food and most beloved Chai-yan.

In conjunction of my birthday, unknowingly and surprisingly , Eileen gave us a treat at one of the best Thai restaurant. Scrumptious, delicious - you name it!

The menu.

We then take a walk around that street and found a lot of interesting stuffs. I spent my last few bahts and off to the airport.

Tired but contented.

I had fun!

Credits

To my lovee darling who was happy for me that I get to choose my vacation destination this time round. Thank you for your understanding.

and..........

Thank you to my ladies for being there for my birthday. Eileen for being my GPS and to fight back with the boys - I needed that! Farah for celebrating for me and being who you are - Bimbo. i enjoyed it.

Lastly...

Kap kun ka..

P.S: if you want to view all the pictures, you may view in my facebook. Friends only.

Upon My word!

To All my Dearest January Babies

2010-01-29T16:38:00.004+08:00

As we all know that January is ending as so this year I'm wrapping up all the presentation to one. :)

To some that i did forget to wish, I truly apologize - Many Many! I'm sure you will have a blast with your loved ones and families. If there was anyone who celebrated alone, I apologize that I'm not there to cheer you up. Babies.

Bu Roon - 3rd Jan
I seriously do not know how old you are this year. But I'm really sorry as I really forget about it. But not too worry, your present will be on your way!

Farah Aj a.k.a Faradiba - 3rd January.

Wow! You've turned 32 this year. But always young at heart right? I know.

Happy Birthday Dear Friend and may this year be a good one and always will be.

Norin Manaf - 3rd January

Hey old schoolmate! Happy 28! It's been decades since we met but I'm sure we will meet soon.

Norsuzy Yanty - 4th Jan

I'm glad you get to spend it with you loved hubby and enjoyed your holiday in Bangkok.

Happy 24 and may you have your baby whenever you want it ok. No pressure. We might want to go holiday together someday!

Nur Izyan Rosli - 7th Jan
My favourite niece of all time. Every year you reminded me that you are 10 years younger than me. Darn!
18 this year and you have taken the big step. Congratulations. May you get your dental cert ok.
Love you Gombal!

Roze A Wahab - 22nd Jan
Hapy birthday Girlfiend. may you achieve what you plan this year!

Shaz Rahman - 22nd Jan
Shazzzzz.. I'm always happy to see you. Next time I go GUESS and buy something you give me that discount ok.. Haha.. Love you always! I know you are busy with the wedding this April. I pray that everything would go smoothly. So any color theme for us. Please don't choose white again ok.

Zhafeer Khan - 22nd Jan
Well my little boy, I know you can't ready this but this is for me to remember. I'm yet to buy you that dinosaur book you've asked for. No more toys or clothes for you. You got too many of them! It's time you have to study most of the time and put your transformers aside.

Afj Rapan a.k.a Pipi - 23rd Jan
It's your BIG 30 this year. Be happy always with your family!

Jenna Jan a.k.a Zana - 23rd Jan
Happy 27th Birthday! It was your big day as you got engaged . The pictures tells that you had hell lot of fun. Who will not? Got engaged to your love one and celebrate your birthday at the same time. And together with your new job. Watsons ould be different w/o you as everytime I see Watson, it reminded me of you.May you be blessed with all the good things in life this year and ever!

And last but not least!

My bitchiest sis-in-law, most highly gossiped about and the biggest bummer I've ever seen!

Haseena Khatoon a.k.a My Khatoon Network. - 27th Jan
You turned 24. Like I said this is the year you should plan your future on where it is going. And you will be perfect by 27 and get married. hahahaha.
Happy Birthday My B***h! May you be happy with that lost child. hah!
Hope you like the muffins and brownies I personally baked for you at Famous Amos. And the time spend at Swensen with that C.U.T.E guy around.

Phew!

That was my January birthday list. What a long one and it's only JANUARY!!! I have like 11 more months to go. But , I will always be happy doing this.

Happy Birthday Everyone! It gets Crazier each year! Since I'm going to be away tomorrow, my blog would not be updated for 6 days. But I will certainly update all my readers the juices of Bangkok once I'm back. Please so miss me ok! Love you all! :)
Upon My Word!

What's Your Point?

2010-01-28T15:07:00.000+08:00

I have deleted about a total of more that 100 "not-friend" friends in Facebook on which I had a particularly good reason of doing so.

It's shook me when I realized that I barely know all these more that 100 people and wondered why they are in my Facebook. I seriously would not mind if I was really interested in social-networking. But all these people whom I do not know, could see my status, my updates and my photos. This could also create a lot of spams in my registered email inbox.

The particular reason on why I need to be so peculiar is that one morning around 7am, my parents in law got a call form this anonymous person saying that she is from an organization tracking muslims who are off limits.

They or she found all these information in Facebook. She (together with the person whispering behind her) told both my parents in law that Eena had converted to Christianity. That statement was too absurd! She said that Eena has lost her way in life and told my parents in law to learn how to use Facebook to track on their children. Does this makes sense?

She also said that the pictures that Eena had posted was obscene. They said more things on the phone. No more details which I could typed out. She asked my parents in law to log in onto Eena's Facebook account during the call to see it.

The thing is Eena had deleted all her pictures 2 weeks ago before that call.

My dad-in-law made a smart move asking her which organization and give her office address so that they could come for counseling. She quickly said that there was no need for her to give him her address but he would need to give him his address instead so that she could come and counsel Eena.

Who would do this absolute nonsense move?

Were these people angry that they are unable to see Eena life picture anymore?

Why is their point then?

I wonder. To these people who made that call, please be mature and come foward to tell us your point of doing that. Even if somebody converted, it's between them and god. What is your point of waking them up at 7am?

GET A LIFE and STOP being a busy body! You are even creating more sin for yourself - "FITNAH"

Upon My Word!

Wishlist

2010-01-26T19:31:00.001+08:00

January is ending soon. I just thought that I had just celebrated New Year last week. I was sitting down and pondering of my goals this year. Was it possible for me to make it all happen again or was I too bad and God's decided not to be good to me.

What happen last year was a flash in my head. I had no idea. lost myself in the midst of doing don't-know-what! I ponder more and more. I know I have listed this before but I just want to mark up why things are not going as plan and since it is the beginning of the year, it's the best time to do time tracking.

Nothing much came true last year except for the achievement I left Starhub and got into Starwood Hotels. This is my first time exploring the hospitality industry and yes, it's tough! with 1000 hotels to remember - I thought I could never make it.

I planned get to go to Dubai or any middle east country but not , I didn't get my car licence, lost my baby, didn't get my culinary diploma as I was finacially stuck during enrollment, infected with HFMD. I felt that I somehow fail as a whole person. It was a terrible year. Nonetheless, It would only make me work harder.

And I hope, hoped hard that this year would be better, brighter and clearer.
My wishlist for 2010 is a goal to see if I am able to achieve this things by your generousity ( which is better la ) or my hardwork.. And more over my birthday is coming in Feb, so (ehem! ehem!) you guys know what to do..

Gift Wishlist:
1 ) New phone with a decent camera most prefably the Samsung one.
2 ) Casio Exilim mini camera cost $279 only!!
3) Bvlgari Omnia Amethyst perfume
4) Hot Pink with Gold lining Adidas watch cost $115
5) A good pair of flops

6) Long Champ bag
7) Beautiful fabrics
8) Shopping vouchers - I like!!
9) Shopping vouchers x 5
10) Shopping vouchers x 10

An additional to my wishlist as i went for window shopping..

11) Quicksilver leather bag - which looks damn awesome lah!
12) A nice silver cham bracelet - Tiffanny ( what else! )

These giftlist will save my shopping spree for this year.. Mwahahahahah! I have covered my travel plans for 2010 on which I'm going to Bangkok and Bali, pending on Phuket and Bandung. Ooh.. so exciting covering bits of Asia this year.

Goals 2010:
1 ) Car driving licence
2 ) Airline ticket for trip to Mexico
3 ) $$$ for Trip to Middle east ( Saving that money for 2011 )
4 ) 5 custom made galabiyas designed by mua!
5 ) Visit to Bandung factories with friends.
6 ) A year of couplehood again ( if you know what mean )
7 ) Lose 10kg in 3 months ( lotsa determination )
8 ) Sign up for a course.
9 ) Plans for Yannie's wedding event successfully
10) Present Love a memorable birthday trip.

Most importantly the 10kg fats has to be gone by March! And I really hope to win that photo competition so I could win that unique Leica camera.

Let see if I'm able to cover most of it in 2010.. Wish me luck for the wishlist.Now working on the timeline.

Life is tough!

Upon My Word!

My countdown!

2010-01-25T20:12:00.000+08:00

Yes! Yes! Yes!

5 more days to go and I can't wait to step outside of my country and experience Bangkok. I'm turning 28 and this is my first trip to Bangkok. Can you believe that? Yah.. I'm might be very much off hand but at least now I made it! ( smiles! )

I asked around a lot on places to go, what to eat and what to really look out for . I really want to spend a joyful 5 days in there with all my friends and I'm so excited to celebrate my birthday in Bangkok. They keep telling me that I would keep on spending there and sometimes the money we bring is not enough so it's best to keep spares. I wonder if I'm going to finish SGD$1000 in 5 days there. I doubt it but who knows. I could be a real spender.

6 of us , Hyder & myself , Justin & Eileen , Dicky & Farah ( whom decided to come the very last minute ) will all be staying at theWestin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel. And of course it would be at a staff, family and friend rate. It only cost us THB$1670 a night! A real good deal . Located at the Sukhumvit Road itself, this hotel is very accessible to almost anywhere.

This hotel is just next to a BTR station ( something like a MRT ) so traffic would not stop us!

All my friends say, "Do not miss The Platinum Mall" , it's heavenly.. I wonder how heavenly would it be.

This mall is huge, they say. So this would be my target and I think this is where most of money would go to. Next would be..

This is what I would look out for every holiday. A warm massage to detox and rejuvenate myself. It would enhanced the whole trip features. Shop, shop, shop then relax.

This is the Chatuchak market and this is the reason why I insisted to go on the weekend even though my birthday was on a Tuesday. The weekend had great bargains. I would not want to miss this.Indefinitely!

My husband will not be alive if his addiction is not around. Other than e of course (hah! ) , would be a place for him to hang out, have coffee and sheesha. Boss had recommended Soi Arab.

Justin insisted that we should try the 80cents worth coffee in Bangkok too. It so aromatic that you can never believe it's worth.

With a full 5 days itinerary in Bangkok, I wonder if I could enjoy seeing the sunset there.

I want to mesmerize myself! Bangkok, here we come!

To Baby, Eileen, Justin, Farah and Dicky. Thank you for making this trip possible. I would most probably be lost without you guys around.

Upon My word!

Travel…Transformed

2010-01-20T17:49:00.000+08:00

I don’t know if you had stayed at The Westin before. The experience of The Westin Brand is very special. This is my favorite hotel so far. To them, it’s not just about traveling but it’s about you transforming yourself and your ideas about traveling.

I did not like this brand because I’m part of the group. I love this brand so much and that is why I joined the group.

The Westin always says “ You will leave feeling better than when you arrived”. It does awaken your senses and calms your psyche. Like for example, in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, you can take a deep breathe with their signature scents in a totally smoke-free breathe environment. In Japan, you may savor traditional rituals reflecting an ancient culture while in Bali and Langkawi , you can definitely restore your inner tranquility with soothing wellness treatments while gazing at the Indian Ocean and the Andaman Sea. Restore your energy with the signature Heavenly bed and heavenly spa bath. And with all these , the transformation is only just the beginning.

Unwind with Westin… This is a Westin evening ritual.

Explore the sights, sounds and tastes of your destination through this program. These curated evening events opens a window onto the local culture and allow you to relax with fellow guests. I was surprised to get an invitation by the hotel manager for an evening for us just to chit-chat with them and over at Westin Langkawi, they have masseuses going around give you a 10 min shoulder and neck or hand massage while you enjoy the evening cocktails and the beautiful sunset at the Andaman Sea.

Heavenly Spa by Westin

This is an international award winning spa. Rejuvenate and Renew at the Heavenly Spa. I had my heavenly massage next to the beach together with the crashing waves and that it was just perfect for my afternoon of relaxation. The tranquil, sumptuous environments offers sanctuaries to restore my body and soul.

Not forgetting their signature Heavenly Beds and Pillows. This is the only hotel which allows you to bring the heavenly feeling back home. You are able to purchase the covers, the bed and pillows, towels either at the hotel you visited or you may order online.

And after all that said, I’m counting down to my next stay at The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok. I just cannot wait for the next heavenly experience.

You have to try it to feel it.

Upon My Word!

Cafe Le Caire - The countdown begins!

2010-01-18T14:04:00.000+08:00

Cafe Le Caire @ Al Majlis will be celebrating their 10 years anniversary next year and they have started counting down to the big event of the decade!

Great food comes with a great deal. Special of the day cost only $10 if you flash your members card. This offers is for January. They are going to have very very interesting promos coming up and so do keep a look out.

I have spend almost 6 years hanging out and chillin at this place. It has created a 3rd home for me.

It's my lifestyle.

Sign up for your own membership only today. It's complimentary.

Upon My Word!

Fall in love with Greek Secrets

2010-01-17T20:16:00.009+08:00

Working in the hospitality industry had made me realize that travelling is not just about leisure but it’s is also about discovering the secrets of the world. Every continent has its own beauty and this time, I’m taking you to Greece.

From spectacular mountains to iconic islands, Greece has its own preservation that uses tourism to sustain the magical villages. And with uncommon beauty comes uncommon value.

It seems strange there was enough wealth in Greece to build trophy mansions : The explanation was a tale of lonely wives and entrepreneurial husbands. How I wondered, had buildings of such sophistication emerged in such lonely, isolated place? And why they seem to be as impeccable and well tended as if newly built, when they are clearly much older? And finally I learn, really two stories behind this phenomenon : improbable genesis of the villages and their equally improbable preservations.

Crete, the southernmost island in the Mediterranean, is internationally renowned for its rich history, enchanting beaches, traditional villages, and dramatic landscape, which includes high mountains, lush emerald forests, and incandescent blue coastlines.

The Blue Palace Resort and Spa is ideally positioned to benefit from all of Crete’s treasures.

Seeing the beauty of Spinalonga Island, this is not the only one. Let’s now go to the unearth perfection with the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea serving as the perfect backdrop, near Pylos - is a beacon of sophistication blending Messinia’s rich history with the contemporary amenities of Navarino Dunes.

With places so good to relax, you would not want to go home. I would even consider migrating there!

Last but not least, I’m going to show you the hotel, Vedema Resort, Santorini . Santorini is a famously beautiful island full of traditional buildings although often not the original ones. Built around a 400-year-old wine cellar, Vedema Resort preserves the traditions of a classic Greek village. Situated in the middle of emerald vineyards and overlooking Santorini’s renowned ebony beaches, offer the treasures of the Mediterranean.

My overview of Greece is over-whelming. The beautiful scenery, humble culture and historical monuments are just astounding. And I also realized that their favorite color is blue, as if you didn’t notice.

And of course Starwood hotels in Greece are exclusive and promise you with a branded experience you will always remember. I would not know when I could afford a trip to Greece but knowing what they offer will definitely make me work hard wanting to see it personally.

All pictures are courtesy of Starwood hotels.
To browse through more Starwood hotels in Greece , you may visit www.starwoodhotels.com .

Upon My Word!

The Beach Wedding

2010-01-16T18:48:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, as mentioned in the earlier post, I went to our cousin Redha and wife, Faizura's wedding.

The wedding was held at East Coast Park, Gold Kist Resort, from 2pm to 10pm. It was a hot but windy in the day and cool in the evening. The wedding was crowded and from what I heard the bride whom is a friend of mine had a 5th Day chicken pox. Poor bride, but she got through it. She was so nervous and shy towards the crowd in front of her. :)

Congratulations to both sweet couple whom I have knew them for 6 years. And so I wondered if the honeymoon was decided to Paris or India.

That's us , on the way to the weddimg. Somebody can never get enough of their make-up. It's the beach we are going to.

The Groom and Bride

My darling princess looks so pretty with her dress. She got so vain with my fan, fanning around herself. So vain port!

And later, the Le Caire girls came and along with Justin and Eileen ( the Haji Lane king and queen )

And then believe it or not, they insisted on having their sheesha at the park. Is that even legal. Hahah.

You see how they are not so far away for the party itself. These guys can do anything they like!

And so I after the short sheesha seesion, we left for the day as baby had to work at 7.45pm. I didn't get to see the 2nd outfit for the bride and groom.

But I'm sure they had a great time.

Congratulations once again.

Upon My Word!

The Sore Loser & Asshole

2010-01-15T23:37:00.000+08:00

I logged in into Facebook today. I have not been active these few days as the wireless was down for a week at the cafe. It was so irritating not being able to update my status, unable to do media downloads, play around with Twitter, challenge the games and check all my emails.

I miss the cyber life.

Besides the story.

As I was browsing the News Feed on Facebook, checking out the status of my beloved friends, I came across a very noticeable comment. A person in my contact list which I have never considered him a friend or at any relations even though he was my sister's friend.

To me , he is a Sore Loser!

My beloved darling sister had dated this man for a while now. Well, I'm her little baby sister, I will want to see the best for her. In the position that I have never interfered private love issues. I'm happy for her if she is happy with herself. But when she's in need , I'll try my best to be there. Always trying to help to be the smarter one. :)

She was hurt before and yet again, to the moon and back with him. I thought since she is single, it would be good to have a circle of friends of girls and MEN. No harm done, professional and mutual.

Since the SORE LOSER had played punk before, would he think that he would ever be fully trusted again? And the SORE LOSER accused just by checking the history of somebody's phone? Where is your senses under that hairless and brainless head of yours?

Just because, somebody bumped into an old fling and exchange numbers, you start charging that as affairs. Wow!

Jealous ?

I guess you must have earned a lot of "charges" yourself. That is why you get so insecure and self praised yourself thinking that you are Mr HARD TO GET?

The thing that is HARD is only the thing down there!

Need I say more what type of person he is. Read below. And it is true that everything comes in pairs. The SORE LOSER has a partner called the ASSHOLE who treats women like thrash too.

Please click on the image to view the convo.

Next better player please! Round of applause to the SORE LOSER and ASSHOLE.

What goes around comes around man! Always remember that. Things we do always have a price to pay.

Upon My Word!

Random Days

2010-01-12T21:24:00.000+08:00

Is Facebook down or what?? The page won't open at all! (wtf)

And so with that over-populated website down, I might as well update Ms Bloggie. :)

Last week, while my father in law was out of town for business, we brought mum in law, lil Zhafeer and not so lil Syafiq out. We wanted to window shop and I was looking for all sorts of fabrics. Where were we? Arab street of course. Some have recognize that it is my favorite place.

It was fun time though raining.

We were in Anglia where we all became wild! The prices for the "bajus" there is so expensive and the material is so "ronyok".

Everytime you go to an occasion wearing an Anglia outfit, try sitting anyhow and you wil get the super crumpled effects!

And then we shop. I was in Rania textile and I enquired on this fabulous fabric with rhinestones on it and it cost $89/meter. I would need like 4 metres and that means that my outfit is going to cost about $500 with the sewing cost! Isn't that crazy?

And that is me, still thinking about the fabric.

I realize that cottons fabrics are in now.. Hmmm.I could do so many things with cotton. I could sew a bag, sew my own shorts, my pillow cases even! The prints were not as good as the ones I bought in US like Amy Butler fabrics or Michael Miller but they are quite acceptable.

Well after fabric shopping, we went to dine. Cafe Le Caire - needless to say.

Special treat for members in January - Killer Deal! If you order any special if the day in January, it will only cost you 10 dollars. This is in conjunction of their countdown for their 10 years anniversary in July 2011.

We had quite a meal and our Mr Not so Lil anymore, Syafiq gave us a treat with his allowance he got from working part-time during the holidays. Just by working he bought himself a Iphone, a $68 headphone and more.. And he's only 15 !!!!

And there they are. My lil ones. Posing off with my speckies. Nerds!

Hahaha.. I had a great day boys..

Upon My Word!

Which one?

2010-01-09T22:21:00.000+08:00

I was checking my e-mails and i cam across a Long Champ subscribe mailer.

One word caught my eye.

SALE!!

And yes, I've always like to buy customized Long Champ bags. It has my personal touch, let me choose my choice of colors, sizes, lengths ans the part I like most - my initials.

And so I started mix-matching. I've learn my lesson on never ever to choose white. I chose white and pink center on my last customized purchased and the stains on the white area never go off!

Which one should I choose?

My favorite canvas, Red and Brown this time with gold zips and buttons. And of course with my name embroided on it. This would cost only USD$135.

This piece would be a unique one as I have never seen this type used downtown.

This would be full leather and embossed intials. I chose my favorite Black with pink.

This would cost USD$450.

Hmmm... Splurge for me.

I feel that every girl should own a Long Champ. The simplest and cheapest canvas.

Have you had yours?

Upon My Word!

The Eyes

2010-01-09T20:52:00.000+08:00

It is the weekend already.

Wireless@sg has been down for a few days in Arab street and that has stopped me from blogging for a few days.

I could not do it ( blog) at home cause, I was too tired to log in after the jogs and I have been having dinner out. :)

For the past 4 days, I have been having this eye infection a.k.a "tembel". My friends and colleagues had suggested so many things like:

Tie a black string on your middle finger ( left hand if your eye infections is on your right - vice versa )

Take hot rice, cover it with handkerchief and dab on your eyes.

And finally my doctor said .. " you have to use eyedrop and hot compress on your eyes morning and night. "

I thought it was quite silly to tie that black string which my PDL insist on it and nothing happen but infect in got worse on the 3rd day. My eyes was like 3/4 swollen in the morning on Friday and you tell me - how should I see?

Doctor did suggested me a minor surgery to remove the sty but hell NO! Nobody is getting thru anywhere near my eyes.

My eyes are all better today. I could put on make up already. No more pale look!

I went to a wedding today. A dear friend of my , Fai and Lovee's dear cousin, Redha. I took pictures of the georgeous couple, but left early to not see their 2nd outfit. Lovee has got to work.

But not to worry, I will definitely give a story on these Bollywood couple.

Upon My Word!

Re-unions!

2010-01-04T22:22:00.000+08:00

I was invited by Sila Danials to meet up for a small sweet girls gathering. I was more than delighted to accept the invitation.

As we were agreeing on the time and venue via Facebook inbox, Zilah Ray came out with a clause that we should not touch on the size and weight issues. We were relatively happy. I was struck. I thought that it was such a good clause. :)

I noticed and observed that every time there was such school meet ups , unknowingly people just want to show/know what and how others become. I strongly agree that this theory would be very wrong.

Reunions : A gathering of the members of a group who have been separated for quite some time.

This is to meet up with your old chums which most of us had missed out on all the fun we had together when we were younger. There was no need to be somebody you are not - really! As a member of the group, we should be happy to see each other again and greatly appreciate each others presence.

I have always tried to avoid these questions:

Hey, how are you?

Good! Yourself?

I'm great/okay..

Where are you working now? Married? Kids?

Blah Blah Blah..

I see!

Long silence................................................

You just have nothing to continue anymore.. I hate that. Where was the moments when we could talk about anything under the sun. I missed that sometimes. Only a few of my friends would actually share their life stories and others are too busy creating one to tell.

Funny how that only a bunch are truthfully honest.

Well, indefinitely I know that this bunch I'm meeting up with are as crazy as they were. Glad to know that we are still sensible enough to know that life is too short to pretend and brag.

That is it!

Life was just too short.

Enjoy it while it last.

Appreciate what we have.

Friends are hard to come by and there is no reason we should compare or start the race. I will be looking foward to that gathering.

See you girls soon!

Upon My Word!

Harbour Seeks

2010-01-03T18:53:00.000+08:00

2nd day of twenty ten. I feel love.

My husband finally got his weekend off. It has been quite sometime since he slave himself to work in Starhub in October to have that extra money for us. I appreciate it greatly.

And so before we started our date we head over to our favorite grandma's place with the rest of the family.

Sadly, Amy did not cook that day and all of us were famished. Bhai Faris had to save the day to go and buy 5 packets of chicken rice for all of us. It was limited but sufficient and it was just good bonding time. The kids look so cute queuing up for their turn to be fed by their beloved Dadi.

And that i us enjoying all the time at her place. The kids had never fail to sweat there despite the strong wind. I have always enjoyed the wind up there.

And so we departed and Love and I headed to the Habour Front/ Vivo City to spend our evening there. Love wanted to see the Sunset which he wanted to go over to Sentosa. For me I wanted shopping and I told him that Sentosa would be packed! To be fair, I chose Vivo to enjoy the sun and the shopping.

Here we are at Vivo City. We spent from 4pm till 9pm at night.

We had a good meal a Musselicious and the venue was superb and the view was captivating.

It's in the way you want me. We sat there from before and after the sunset. It was such a romantic moment.

Well since i take a better picture with MY camera, lovee became my model of the day. Anyway he wanted to show off his new top! Well hope you like the pictures love.

And the place we cannot missed out on Vivo City is Page One. Lovee will be at his favorite section - All the IT and gadgets stuffs while I go to the women's magazine, my favorite travel and living and cooking . Then I came up this interesting mag for my current situation now - Weight Watchers. Bought it!

I ended my day at Cafe Le Caire as usual and meet up with our favorite friends, Eileen & Justin. Some soul sharing and with a good laugh of us girls teasing the guys all the time, I ended my day with a smile in bed.

Sometimes, it's all the little things we do - Contented.

Upon My Word!

First Step

2010-01-01T18:20:00.000+08:00

It's 1st Jan 2010 already.

Here I am creating a new blog, wanting to track myself down for this whole year and maybe years to come. Like others I have plans, dreams and goals.

This would be a good source of vomitting out my thoughts and to kill all these free time I'm going to have.

I am still comtemplating on whether I should make this publish?

I'm trying to list out the rational reason on why I'm starting these again.

Firstly, eversince I started my new job in Starwood, I have a lot of time to myself. It has been 5 months now and god knows what I'm doing- Slumbering
Since I have a lot of itineraries this year in 2010, I was thinking of sharing it or keep all these memories for my reading pleasure only. I read my past blog and I was smiling or eager trying to indulge in reminiscence.
Cafe Le Caire had included me in theire social group as a committe member. Which means they require me to blog more and socialise more .. eergh..

Well I guess this is why I'm starting to write again. I've always wanted to be a writer/ reviewer. Food critique maybe. Wished to be one by 35. Maybe it is possible. I'll will definitely work that one out.

And so here goes my ranting..

To date I weigh 73kg on which I lost 1kg in 3 the past days and on which also I gained from 63kg when I got married in Aug 2008. I have a serious weight issue right now which have stopped me from cam whoring. Seriously!

And so I had a bet with my best friend Yannie though I seriously think that she is not fat but her fiance does think so, that we will have a target to lose by March 2010. The bet was , who became the biggest loser wins a surprise treat.

That bet started today. Yes I am watching my diet at this very moment. I had 4 slices of bread for brunch as I woke up at 12pm and I am not hungry eversince. It does makes a big difference as I am a 1 hourly muncher.

Well I am really hoping to be 63 again by March this year to fit in all the sexy dresses I'm going to try on.

I bought this pocket mag, Walking Fit and this is a truly perfect magazine for those who don't run. Walk off your belly fat they say. You can actually lose 2 sizes waist in 1 month just by walking 20 mins a day. And of course you still have to control your diet still.

I'm trying this method and If you see me in the sexy dress, you know it works!

Upon My word!